HUUM vs Harvia: Quick Sauna Heater Brand Comparison

If you’re in the market for a sauna heater, chances are you’ve come across two big names: HUUM and Harvia. Both brands have their strengths, but they cater to slightly different needs. Whether you’re looking for sleek, modern aesthetics or traditional Finnish craftsmanship, this comparison will help you decide which sauna heater is right for you.
HUUM Sauna Heaters Overview
HUUM sauna heaters are designed with a modern, minimalist aesthetic that sets them apart from traditional sauna heaters. Originating from Estonia, HUUM has gained popularity for its open rock basket designs, which create a softer, more natural heat and steam experience. Their heaters accommodate a high volume of stones, allowing for long-lasting, gentle steam sessions that closely resemble the heat of a traditional wood-fired sauna.
One of HUUM’s biggest advantages is its advanced technology. Many models are compatible with UKU smart controls, which let you preheat your sauna remotely via a mobile app. This feature makes HUUM heaters a great fit for those who want to integrate their sauna into a smart home system. However, installation requires more planning due to the heater’s open design and larger stone capacity. If you’re looking for a stylish, high-performance heater that prioritizes steam quality and smart functionality, HUUM is an excellent choice.
Harvia Sauna Heaters Overview
Harvia is one of the most established sauna heater brands in the world, with a history dating back to 1950 in Finland. Known for their reliability and efficiency, Harvia heaters are designed for fast heat-up times and consistent performance. The brand offers a wide range of options, including electric, wood-burning, and even hybrid models, making it easy to find a heater that suits your sauna setup.
Unlike HUUM’s open rock basket design, Harvia heaters feature enclosed rock chambers that optimize heat distribution and safety. Their heaters are built to withstand heavy use, making them a top choice for both home and commercial saunas. While Harvia’s digital control options are more straightforward compared to HUUM’s smart-enabled features, they are easy to use and highly dependable. If you need a durable, no-fuss sauna heater with fast heating and long-term reliability, Harvia is a brand you can trust.
Design and Aesthetics
HUUM heaters are known for their minimalist, contemporary design. They feature rounded, open rock baskets that showcase the natural beauty of sauna stones. If you want a sauna heater that looks as good as it performs, HUUM’s design-forward approach is a major draw. Their heaters often complement modern spa-like spaces and bring a stylish touch to any sauna.
Harvia, on the other hand, sticks to a more traditional sauna aesthetic. Their heaters have a solid, functional look with enclosed rock chambers. They prioritize durability and performance over sleek design, making them a trusted choice for sauna enthusiasts who appreciate classic Finnish craftsmanship.
Heating Performance
Both brands deliver efficient heating, but they do so in different ways. HUUM heaters are designed for a softer, more natural steam experience. Their large rock capacity ensures even heat distribution and a longer-lasting steam session. This makes them ideal for those who enjoy a more authentic, relaxing sauna experience.
Harvia heaters, meanwhile, are built for quick heat-up times and high performance. Their models, whether electric or wood-burning, are optimized for efficiency, meaning you get to sauna temperatures faster. If you value convenience and fast heating, Harvia is a solid option.
Controls and Smart Features
Technology plays a key role in modern sauna heaters, and both brands offer smart control options. HUUM’s UKU controls allow you to preheat your sauna remotely using a mobile app, making it easy to step into a warm sauna whenever you want. These controls are user-friendly and integrate well with smart home setups.
Harvia also offers digital controls, but they tend to be simpler and more straightforward. Their focus is on reliability rather than high-tech features, which is great if you prefer an easy-to-use system without too many extras.
Installation and Maintenance
When it comes to installation, HUUM heaters often require more planning. Their open stone design means they need additional clearance and careful setup to ensure even heating and safety. You’ll also need a larger quantity of sauna stones compared to most other brands.
Harvia heaters, in contrast, are designed with straightforward installation in mind. They come in a variety of sizes and styles, making it easy to find a model that fits your sauna without much hassle. Maintenance is also simpler, with accessible parts and fewer specialized requirements.
Quick Comparison
- HUUM: Modern design, softer steam, smart control integration, requires more planning for installation.
- Harvia: Traditional look, faster heat-up times, straightforward controls, easy installation and maintenance.
Which Sauna Heater Is Right for You?
If you love a sleek, contemporary sauna experience with long-lasting heat and smart controls, HUUM is an excellent choice. It’s especially great for home saunas where design is just as important as performance.
If you’re looking for a reliable, efficient, and no-fuss sauna heater with quick heating times, Harvia won’t disappoint. It’s a great option for both residential and commercial saunas, offering dependable performance year after year.
Ultimately, your choice comes down to preference. Whether you lean toward HUUM’s modern elegance or Harvia’s tried-and-true reliability, both brands offer high-quality sauna heaters that will elevate your sauna experience.